FG flags-off free VVF surgeries for 10,150 patients

The Federal government has launched Rapid Results Initiative, RRI programme aimed at performing 10,150 Vesico Vaginal Fistula, VVF, free surgeries as part of the better health for all project of the present administration.

The free surgeries which are being carried out in partnership with International Society of Obstetric Fistula Surgeons, SOFS are taking place concurrently in Abuja, Ibadan, Katsina, Minna and Abakaliki in Ebonyi State.

The Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole who is leading the team to repair the VVF cases at the Federal Medical Centre, Jabi, Abuja explained that the initiative was borne out of the need to respond to the critical needs of the people and deliver on the mandate of promoting health with focus on access, affordability and demand.

Adewole said his ministry will continue to train more personnel on how to carry out the Fistula repair since it is preventable and treatable.

“We will continue to work with SOFS as well as the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs to educate Nigerians that Obstetric Fistula is preventable and treatable. We have repaired 50 fistula cases so far but the target is 10,150.”

VVF is an abnormal opening created between the urinary system and the vagina usually after a prolonged labour not attended by skilled personnel.

Earlier, President-elect, International Society of Obstetric Fistula Surgeons, Prof. Ogadosy Ojengbede said that women suffering from Fistula faced challenges in accessing treatment but the project will enable the poor and the vulnerable who hitherto could not afford the fistula treatment to beam with smiles.

He stressed that mobilising the global community to support government initiative is of paramount importance adding that religion and traditional institutions have critical roles to play in mobilizing support for government initiative.